First of all, don't panic! There are many things you can do. Double-check with members of your household to ensure that no one has your pet, or knows where your pet is. Do a thorough search of your home: if you have lost a cat or small dog, look carefully through closets and hampers, behind furniture and any other small space your pet could be hiding in.

Enlist the help of friends and family to search the neighbourhood. Ask them to carry cell phones so they can contact you when they find your pet. Contact neighbours, local vet clinics and other animal shelters to ask if they have seen your pet. To find out if your pet is at the animal shelter, call 403-851-2532 to arrange an appointment to view impounded animals. Place a lost pet report on Petlynx. If necessary, make posters with your pet’s picture to put up around your neighbourhood.

Depending on where you live, you must contact the County or Municipal District in which you reside. You can also contact the Cochrane and Area Humane Society at 403-932-2072 to see if your pet has been brought in. If you have internet access, you can create a lost report for your animal at Petlynx.

All dogs that reside within the Town of Cochrane must be licensed with the Town. The owner of an animal shall obtain a licence for such animal on the first day on which the Town Office is open for business after the dog becomes three months of age.

Yes, all cats over three months old must have a current Town of Cochrane licence. Licences can be purchased at the Cochrane RancheHouse at 101 RancheHouse Road, Cochrane (cash, debit, VISA and MasterCard) or by phone at 403-851-2523 (VISA and MasterCard). Cat licences can also be purchased online once you have registered a username and password with the Town of Cochrane. To register please fill out the form online.

Even if your cat is already tattooed or microchipped, a Town licence is an essential form of traceable identification. Tattoos may fade and become illegible over time. More importantly, many pet owners do not update their tattoo and microchip information if they move or change phone numbers, making these forms of identification useless. An annual licence renewal gives owners an opportunity to update contact information, making sure their cat can be returned safely should they become lost.

Even the best cared for cats sometimes make a break for the great outdoors. Municipal Enforcement sees numerous indoor cats each year that took advantage of a door or window that was accidentally left open. As a responsible pet owner, you can protect your cat by licensing it and providing permanent identification such as a tattoo or microchip. For information on tattoos and microchips contact your veterinarian.

- Reunite lost cats and dogs with their owners- Shelter and feed lost cats and dogs- Deliver public education programs- Help neighbours resolve their animal-related conflicts- Provide emergency care to cats and dogs for injured animals- Waste bag dispenser program on our pathway systems- Online animal search- Free trip home with active license

Licences can be purchased at the Cochrane RancheHouse at 101 RancheHouse Road, Cochrane (cash, debit, VISA and MasterCard) or by phone at 403-851-2528 (VISA and MasterCard). Dog and cat licences can be purchased online once you have a username and password with the Town of Cochrane. To register please fill out theform online. Licence renewal payments can made through online banking.

No, if you move your information does not update for your dog or cat licence. To ensure proper return of your dog or cat, it is your responsibility to keep all your information up-to-date. Update Information form

Yes, if your animal is no longer in your care or deceased please update your information with the Town of Cochrane. To update your information please contact us at animal.licenses@cochrane.ca or use the Update Information Form

Animal Services officers impound pets found running at large. If the animal is wearing identification, officers will attempt to take him or her home. If the animal does not have a current licence, or the owner information in our system is not up-to-date, or if there is no one over 18 years of age at home to accept the animal, he or she will be taken to the animal shelter.

Upon your pet's arrival at the shelter, Animal Services will check for a tattoo, microchip and overall health. If the animal has a tattoo or other identification, and the name and address of the owner are known, he or she is held for 10 days, during which time every effort is made to contact the owners. Animals that are not picked up within 10 days are turned over to the Cochrane and Area Humane Society.

Actually, the Town of Cochrane has two dog off-leash areas that total 6 hectares in size (see the map). The first is located at the end of River Avenue. The pathway is paved and there is access to the river, where dogs can swim. The second dog-off leash area is located under the Bow River Bridge (park in boat launch parking, accessible from Griffin Road east of Highway 22). Dogs must be leashed until in the dog off-leash area. This area is a large space that is excellent for playing fetch. No matter which park you use, dogs are required to be under control of the owner while in an off-leash area. Dog poop bag dispensers are located at both parks.

When you are out in the community, your dog must be on leash at all times. At an off-leash park, make sure that your dog is under your control at all times. This means that he must be able to respond to voice, sound or visual signs and be in your sight at all times.

Always pick up after your dog; this helps prevent the spread of disease from dog-to-dog and dog-to-human. If you forget a bag, look for one of the poop bag dispensers near Town pathways.

Pets left in cars must have sufficient ventilation, but not a way to reach people who walk by the car. Keep in mind that on a hot day, a dog can suffer heat stroke in 10 minutes. It is wisest not to leave your dog in the car on summer days.

This is not a change to the current Animal Bylaw. Barking is a natural canine behaviour. It is unrealistic to think you can train your dog to stop barking altogether. However, you, your neighbors and your dog will all be much happier if the barking is kept under control. The dog owner must ensure that the barking does not become a nuisance to others. Proper training, supervision and adequate exercise and stimulation will help prevent problem barking.

If you (or someone you know) have been bitten by a dog, get medical attention. Also, call Animal Services at 403-851-2532 to report the incident. Be prepared to provide as much of the following information as possible:

Your name, address, home and business numbers

The current location of the dog that bit you

Names and phone numbers of witnesses of the incident and brief details

Cats are allowed outside but must remain on their owner’s property at all times. Cats that roam can easily become lost. Indoor cats live longer, healthier lives because they are safe from vehicles, animal cruelty, dogs and wildlife. Keeping them indoors prevents the spread of feline leukemia and parasites that can lead to expensive vet bills. Keeping cats on the owner’s property reduces neighbourhood disputes about the cat being at large, defecation and damage to other animals.

Cat owners must keep cats on their own property. If a neighbour’s cat is being a nuisance in your yard, and you know where he lives, we suggest discussing the situation with the cat’s owner. If your discussion is unsuccessful, or you are not comfortable talking to your neighbour, you can register a complaint with Animal Services by calling 403-851-2532.

All cats over three months old must have a current Town of Cochrane licence. The choices you make as a pet owner affect your cat’s overall well-being and longevity. One of the most important things you can do to keep your cat healthy is to prevent it from roaming at large in Cochrane. Cats that roam can easily become lost; a licence will ensure a swift reunion should your cat become lost.

If you are comparing last year’s assessment to this year’s, you’ll notice there is a change in the terminology: a single family home is now described as “Res Single Family Improved.” This simply means your property has an improvement on it — your house. It does not indicate an improvement to your home from last year; it’s a way to differentiate between properties with buildings and those without buildings. Please note: this change in terminology does not affect your assessment value.

Assessment notices are mailed in advance of the property tax bill to allow property owners the opportunity to review the assessed value and ensure it is reasonable prior to the tax bill being sent out in May.

The real estate market sets the value of your property. Our Assessors measure that market utilizing mass appraisal techniques, which determine property values by grouping similar properties as of a specific date. Market value assessments may vary depending on geographic location, building style and size of property. All assessments are prepared in accordance with the Municipal Government Act and the requirements of the Matters Relating to Assessment and Taxation Regulation.

Yes, GST is a cost incurred by a purchaser as part of the value paid. This amount should be reported to the Land Titles office. GST is typically recovered in the resale of the home, so no adjustments are made to the market value.

There are a number of factors that go into determining your assessed value. A variety of changes including extensive renovations, basement development, garages additions, fireplaces, and decks can alter the assessed value of a property.

The assessed value is determined through an analysis of properties that have sold in the previous year. Different neighbourhoods or dwelling types may appreciate of depreciate in value at different rates from year to year.

The average market value of single family homes may have decreased overall, but the difference between each neighbourhood may not match the overall year to year change.

Your assessment is based on its physical condition as of December 31 of the year previous to the current taxation year. Any significant changes to your home will likely increase its market value and therefore, increase your assessment.

Provincial legislation specifies that the funds for schools are to be collected by municipalities. The province and separate school boards requisition revenue they require from the Town and the total levy is distributed among taxpayers through their property tax bills. People who do not own property contribute indirectly through their rental or lease payments.

You can pay your property tax bill at the Town office with cash, money order, personal cheque, bank draft or debit card (include the remittance portion of the notice), or through your bank’s telephone or internet banking. Credit cards are not accepted.

In person during office hours (Mon - Fri, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm)

Cochrane RancheHouse 101 RancheHouse Road

In person after office hours

Drop your money order, cheque, bank draft in the drop box at Town office or FCSS; remember to include the remittance portion of your notice. Do not drop off cash.

Cochrane RancheHouse

101 RancheHouse Rd

FCSS

209 Second Ave W

Mail (include your payment and the remittance portion of your notice)

Town of Cochrane 101 RancheHouse Road Cochrane AB T4C 2K8

At your bank or credit union

Set up the Town as a bill payee through your regular bill payment system; your roll number is your account number. Allow three business days before the penalty date to ensure payments are processed on time. Please retain all documentation.

TIPP

Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) allows you to pay your property taxes in equal monthly installments instead of a single annual payment. Call 403-851-2288 or 403-851-2522 before June 15 to register to avoid a 7% penalty on July 1.

The location for the bridge is based on the shape of the river, significant grade and topographical variances, and suitable road alignment with the new Griffin Road and James Walker Trail alignment. The Town’s 2006 Transportation Plan included the new bridge across the Bow River and arterial road connections on both sides. Other bridge locations would be significantly more expensive due to the additional length of the road required and the span required to cross the Bow River.

This location also provides direct connectivity to the SLS Family Sports Center and Cochrane’s downtown for car, bike, pedestrian and possibly transit from the communities south of the Bow River.

The off-leash area and the multi-use pathway in that area will be left largely intact; however, a portion of the off-leash area and multi-use pathway will be closed to the public during construction. There will be a detour for the multi-use pathway to maintain connectivity. More information will be provided closer to the start of construction.

There are some decisions still to be made regarding pathway alignments and facilities; however, the bridge has been designed to minimize the impact to the multi-use pathway and river access of the off-leash area. An amenity space with benches and tables beneath the bridge is also being planned.

A new parking lot is currently being planned to replace the temporary parking area established during the Griffin Road realignment.

Plans and draft locations were evaluated as far back as 2002, and are based on functional studies that determined the most efficient alignment and greatest utility for both ends of the proposed bridge. Current and future land uses, roadway length and grades, bridge span, floodways, impacts to adjacent properties, and users all played a role in choosing the crossing location.

Construction of the bridge and approach roads will commence following the completion of realignment of Griffin Road in spring 2018, and obtaining necessary permits from Alberta Environment, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and Transport Canada (among others) to work within the river.

Detailed structural design of the bridge has begun and is expected to be complete and Issued for construction by summer 2018.

The Town is currently preparing an RFP for selection of the construction contractor for the bridge in early spring 2018. A separate RFP will be issued for the construction contractor for the James Walker Trail roadway in late spring 2018.

The Town will be requesting public input for some aesthetic aspects and the naming of the bridge. More information will be available once the process is finalized.

The initial phase of work sees a new, two-lane James Walker Trail corridor and bridge connecting Griffin Road at the Arena Road roundabout to Riviera Way in Riversong. The Town anticipates the bridge and the new James Walker Trail will be open to the public by end of 2020.

In addition to the roadway itself, the construction also includes a new separated multi-use pathway and on-road bike lanes that cross the river on the bridge. The new pathway and bike lanes will be connected to the existing pathway and bike lane systems.

The extension of James Walker Trail from Riviera Way through to Highway 22 will be constructed later, depending on the timing of the South Bow development.

The Government of Alberta, through the Municipal Government Act, provides municipalities with the authority to establish a system of licensing for businesses, business activities and persons engaged in business. Business licensing bylaws are enacted to protect public health and safety, and a Business Licence serves as a confirmation that a business complies with local laws and regulations.

Business licence fees support a wide variety of Economic Development programs: Business Attraction and Retention Program (including the Business Visitation Program and Online Business Directory), a variety of employer training programs and the Visitor Information Centre.

Depending on the type of business and your location, you may also need a municipal development permit or other municipal, provincial and federal authorizations. Follow the steps in BizPaL for a complete list.

You first need to apply for a home-based business development permit, which usually takes about three weeks. Once the development permit (DP) has been approved and issued, we can then issue a business licence for you to do business. View more information in the business centre.

There are several different ways to make payment for your Business Licence Renewal: • Credit card by eServices (Invoice number required) • Mail (please make cheques out to "Town of Cochrane") • Credit card by phone- 403-851-2573 • In person (cash, cheque, debit or credit card) • Cheque drop off at Family and Community Support Services at Second Ave W, East Side Entrance, or at Big Hill Leisure Pool at 201 Fifth Avenue

You may not alter the grading of the lot in a manner that allows surface drainage onto a neighbouring property.

You must maintain positive drainage away from the dwelling.

It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that the wall or structure is entirely located outside of any utility right-of-ways or easements that may be registered on the property.

If the retaining structure is greater than 1m high, the wall must be engineered. Please note: the height of the structure is considered to be the height from its base, not the exposed height above ground.

The design of the wall must be completed by a professional structural and/or geotechnical engineer and submitted to the Town of Cochrane Civil Land Development for approval prior to the start of construction.

A lot grading certificate is confirmation that a building lot conforms to Town of Cochrane design grade specifications. You must ensure your lot grading is approved before you begin any landscaping.

Upon completion of house construction the home builder is required to grade the lot as per the approved building grade plan design grades (these grades would have been approved at the subdivision stage).

How to get a lot grading certificate:

After the home is built and lot is graded, the home builder must engage a certified surveyor to survey the lot to verify that the grades match the design grades or are within the allowable tolerances (please refer to the surface drainage bylaw for acceptable tolerances)

Once the survey is complete, the home builder submits an original copy of the Final Lot Grading certificate (signed and sealed by a Certified Land Surveyor or a Professional Engineer) certifying the grades are within tolerance. Generally, the builder also supplies a copy of the survey to the home owner around the same time.

Once the lot grading certificate is received, the home owner may landscape their propertyNote: HOME OWNERS MAY NOT LANDSCAPE UNTIL A LOT GRADING CERTIFICATE IS RECEIVED

The developer of a new subdivision installs the infrastructure necessary to service the area: water mains, hydrants, sanitary and storm sewer infrastructure, roads, sidewalks, pathways, park areas, storm ponds, lift and booster stations, reservoirs, sound attenuation walls, drainage swales and so on. Once these have been installed, Town of Cochrane Civil Land Development signs a Construction Completion Certificate (CCC), accepting that they have been completed in accordance with the proposed design. A signed CCC is the beginning of a maintenance period where the developer is still responsible for any work or maintenance associated with the infrastructure. The maintenance period can be one to three years, depending on the utility. When the maintenance period expires, the Town performs a final inspection. If the infrastructure is in acceptable condition, a Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC) is issued to the developer, relieving the developer of all maintenance obligations. Once an FAC is issued, the Town accepts ownership.

Yes, local non-profit and community organizations may request space on the digital signs to help promote programs and events. Communications staff layout, upload and schedule all digital sign content. Use the sign request form.

We think it's important to connect people with local groups. Contact us with the details of your non-profit, service or other community group and we'll add your link in the appropriate place on our website (we reserve the right to remove any link if it becomes out-of-date, your organization changes from a non-profit, service or other community group, or if we have concerns about the content).

The Cochrane Eco Centre accepts clean Styrofoam/foam meat trays, egg cartonsand foam take-out containers for recycling – look for the “Foam” recycling window along the back of the Eco Centre building. Please ensure that the trays and containers have been washed and all labels, tape and wrap are removed. Do not put any type of Styrofoam/foam in your residential recycling cart as those materials are hauled to a facility that cannot process these products.

Yes, you can purchase a backyard composter at the Cochrane Eco Centre. They're also available at many hardware stores as well as the Green Calgary Eco-Store. Or bring your food waste to the Eco Centre for composting!

Cochrane Economic Development is a great place to start for support and information. They have good working relationships with other groups and agencies that provide services to business; if they don’t have what you're looking for, they will find someone who does.

Municipal elections in Alberta are regulated by the Local Authorities Election Act, which is provincial legislation. Each municipality also has a Municipal Election Bylaw to regulate any additional details specific to their municipality.

The Town of Cochrane returning officer announces unofficial election results as soon as all the votes are counted on election day (usually within a couple of hours after the polls close at 8pm). The results become official at noon on the fourth day after the election.

We have links to contact information for all candidates. You can also read the local newspaper and online news sources for articles and interviews with the candidates, or look for opportunities to meet with them in person and ask about their platforms and priorities.

It will take approximately 24 hours to receive your username and password for our online services once we have received your request. All of the Town's information is covered under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP Act). For this reason and for our customers' protection, we double check all of our accesses before distributing any usernames and/or passwords.

The tax and assessment information provided through the public information search does not show any financial considerations such as an outstanding account balance or TIPP information. This type of information is protected from the public under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Any business within the town's jurisdiction with a current and valid Town of Cochrane Business License will have its business name appear in the Town of Cochrane's Online Business Directory. Any business has the choice to opt out of the Town of Cochrane's Online Business Directory.

You can contact our office at 403-851-2250 to speak with a Community Resource Worker to arrange for a food hamper and a pick up time.

Food Hampers for the current week must be requested by 4:30pm on Tuesdays. The food hamper can then be picked up at the prearranged time at the Cochrane Activettes Food Bank at 30 Griffin Industrial Point, Bay 4, 403-932-9290.

There are two fees for criminal record checks:• Volunteers: If you are in a volunteer position: $10 per check • Paid positions/record suspensions: If you are in a paid position or are requesting a record suspension: $35 per check.

PLEASE NOTE: Starting March 15, 2017, payment and requests are both processed at the RCMP detachment.

You can contact our office at 403-851-2250 to arrange for a free backpack from our Backpack Program. We will ask for the parent's contact information, age of the child, grade and name of the school the child attends.

Cochrane currently has a day home agency called Play Days Family Day Home. They are a government regulated agency, which is a requirement to qualify for a government child care subsidy. Visit the website for more information. You can email this site to receive a current list of licensed day homes in Cochrane. All listed day homes are licensed with the Town of Cochrane. The website also lists preschools, the Parent Link Centre calendar and other useful information.

Alberta Human Resources works out of Canmore and Calgary. Workers come from Canmore to Cochrane on Wednesdays. You must phone 310-0000 then enter 403-678-2363 to pre-book an appointment. The application forms can be picked up at our office at #1, 209 - Second Avenue W, in the blue HomeStead building, Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. You may also drive to Canmore for an appointment most weekdays.

The HomeStead apartment building at 209 – Second Avenue West is run by the Cochrane Society for Housing Options. Information and a waiting list application can be found on their website. It can also be found at our office at #1, 209 - Second Avenue West, the blue HomeStead building, Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. Please call or stop by for more information.

The Cochrane Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is funded through a partnership with the province and municipality (Town of Cochrane). Several other sources of grant funding are accessed to provide more community services.

Your invoice is due 30 days from the date of the invoice. Please call the Town Accounts Receivable should you not be able to meet this deadline. There will be three reminder Accounts Receivable statements sent out after the initial invoice has been sent. The third notice is the final notice and may preclude that your account will go to collections - Small Claims Court. There is no interest charged on any overdue accounts unless the account receives a judgment from the courts.

Contact the Town Accounts Receivable to discuss your financial situation. In most cases a solution can be found that meets both of our requirements. Please remember though, you are obligated to pay the bill the same way the ambulance was obligated to take care of you even if someone else called on your behalf.

Alberta Health Care does not cover ambulance services. The cost of using the ambulance is your responsibility, except for in-patient hospital transfers which are then covered by the sending hospital. Prior to April 1, 2010 the Town of Cochrane’s municipally-operated ambulance service was a user-pay system so that the costs would not be the sole responsibility of Cochrane taxpayers. A listing of the charges/rates set by Council was sent with your invoice. After April 1, 2010, even though the province took over the service, an invoice will still be issued by Alberta Health Services.

Payment can be made in person, by mail or over the phone. Your payment is to be made out to the Town of Cochrane and can be cash, debit card, cheque, money order, VISA or MasterCard. Payment can also be made online under our E-Government services section by credit card (VISA or MasterCard). A user ID and password are required for this online service to ensure security of the information.

The Town of Cochrane signed an agreement with Alberta Blue Cross effective January 1, 2006. For anyone who utilizes Cochrane Ambulance Service and has Alberta Blue Cross coverage, the Town can direct bill to Alberta Blue Cross for any of the eligible services provided. This applies to all Blue Cross subscribers including individual and employer group plan members, as well as, those who are covered through a government program sponsored by either Alberta Health and Wellness (eg: coverage for Seniors, non-group coverage), Alberta Human Resources and Employment, Alberta Seniors and Community Supports (eg: AISH) or Alberta Children's Services (Child Health Care package). All these government programs are administered by Blue Cross with Blue Cross rates applying in all instances.

In order for this arrangement of direct billing to work smoothly, all clients with Alberta Blue Cross coverage must present their Alberta Health Care insurance card and Blue Cross card at the time the service is provided. If we do not receive the required information at that time - or if your plan does not cover the total cost of the ambulance service - we will issue a bill. If you are a Blue Cross subscriber and receive a bill for the full service, please contact our office as soon as you can so that we may review the situation and, if possible, send in the claim directly to Blue Cross. There is a provided time period of one year from the date of service to make a claim to Blue Cross. Whether you are on a government program or a private group or have an individual plan the same basic information is required: your full name, correct mailing address, your date of birth, Alberta Health Care identification number, Alberta Blue Cross group number, class and/or section number and your identification number.

Yes, outdoor fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, barbecue pits or portable fire receptacles can be used year round, as long as there is no fire ban in effect that prohibits their use.As long as your fire pit, outdoor fireplace, barbecue pit or portable fire receptacle meet the guidelines outlined in the Fire Services Bylaw, you don't need a permit. You may use your fire pit to burn clean, dry, untreated wood or charcoal, but not yard waste. You are required to have a means of extinguishing the fire on hand at all times while it is burning. A garden hose and water are sufficient. Download the fire pit brochure for more details and specifications for an acceptable fire pit.

If you uploaded your resume through our online application portal, you'll see a confirmation immediately. The Town of Cochrane thanks all applicants for their interest, but advises that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The online system displays a confirmation message on your screen after successful application to an available job. Rest assured that this confirmation ensures your application is in our system and will be reviewed. Should you encounter technical difficulties while applying, please contact humanresources@cochrane.ca

Cochrane is a family-oriented community located in the breathtaking Bow Corridor in southern Alberta. We are situated within minutes of both the Rocky Mountains and the City of Calgary. We foster an environment that values a work-life balance and offer an excellent benefits package, including a pension plan, learning and physical wellness benefits, health spending account, compressed work week option and a competitive annual salary commensurate with education and experience.

The Land Use Bylaw regulates the types and mix of housing, and the location and types of shops and services that characterize your neighbourhood. It also outlines the development potential of each property. As a tool for implementing our shared vision, amendments to the LUB will ensure it continues to guide growth in a way that is sustainable and consistent with the character of our Town and our vision for the future.

The Town of Cochrane is divided into several land use districts that include residential, commercial, industrial and blended (mixed-use) districts. Each district has a specific set of rules that govern use and development for parcels within it. Rules may be specific to the design, size, and use of new or existing buildings, or may establish parameters for redevelopment, such as building an extension or addition for a specific use.

To develop, change the use of, or build anything in Cochrane, applications are required so Town planners can ensure proposed development aligns with the vision for Cochrane. The Town may request changes to an application or, otherwise, award approval. As the Development Authority, no building or development can occur without approval from the Town. The LUB provides a systematic approach for decisions to ensure all applications for land use approvals are treated fairly, and to ensure consistency of interpretation.

The Town of Cochrane is experiencing significant growth and change. Over the past few years, policy documents such as the MDP have been updated with input from the community to better reflect our shared vision for the future. This review — the first in nearly ten years — will examine the LUB for consistency with planning and other documents and to move our shared vision forward. The review and update process will also give us an opportunity to ensure the LUB is clear and easy to understand.

Several sections have been identified as priorities at this time:Administrative Processes: To ensure consistency throughout the bylaw, some administrative items require clarification.Definitions: Update definitions to ensure they are relevant and easy to understand. This will provide for the consistent interpretation of the bylaw for both applicants and the Development Authority.Enforcement: A review of LUB enforcement is required to ensure penalties are appropriate for infractions and to gauge capacity for municipal enforcement.Parking: A comprehensive review of existing parking regulations will explore opportunities for increasing efficiencies and help the Town better understand the impact that lot and stall design have on urban form and community design.Recreation and Gathering Spaces: Explore opportunities for implementing the Town’s vision for public gathering spaces, public art, arts and recreation.Residential, Commercial and Industrial Land Use Districts: Review Land Use Districts to ensure there is a balance of form and massing, land use, and development. Updates will take into account economic trends to understand current and future opportunities and challenges.Signage: Update to reflect the Town’s vision for neighbourhoods and the downtown area. Consult with the community on potential needs and gaps.Slope Stability: The bylaw regulating development on or around steep slopes will be updated to ensure consistent and accurate interpretation.Wetland and Riparian Areas: Review and explore opportunities for aligning with the Wetland Policy and associated procedures adopted by Council in 2013.

Amendments will occur throughout 2014 and into 2015, with different sections being addressed at different times. The public will be invited to provide feedback on specific elements as they come up for review.

The Town of Cochrane is committed to inclusive and transparent decision-making. Residents and businesses can get up-to-date information and notices of opportunities to get involved on the Town website, Facebook page and Twitter account, as well as in Municipal Matters.

Yes, anyone can attend Town Council meetings. Regular Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month, except July, August and December, when meetings are held only on the second Monday of the month. Meetings begin at 6 pm. Check for agendas for upcoming meetings which are posted by 3 pm on the Friday before the meeting.

Contact us at 403-851-2526 and let us know what information you are looking for. A formal FOIP request may not be necessary; if it is, we will assist you through the application process. See FOIP page.

Mobile food vendors that are based in Cochrane are considered a Home Based Business – Major. In the Land use Bylaw, they are a discretionary use in most residential districts, and as such, require a Development Permit and Business License.

An operation base is the primary location that acts as the base of the mobile food vendor business. It includes the location for office space, truck storage, product storage, food preparation space, etc.

An operation area is where the mobile food vendor operates. A vendor may have several operation areas. All operation areas are reviewed and approved as part of the Development Permit process. Operation areas on private land require written authorization from the registered land owner. Operation areas on public land require authorization from the Town.

An operation plan is a detailed agreement that outlines the conditions in which a vendor will operate their business; it is included as a condition of approval for all Development Permits. The operation plan includes the location of the operation base and operating areas, details of solid waste and waste water management, provisions for operating at special events, provisions for signage, and hours of operation.

5. Placement of any furniture associated with the mobile food vendor operation is not permitted.

6. The mobile food vendor operation plan shall be adhered to at all times.

7. Operation of the mobile food vendor vehicle at any special event or festival may only be permitted if the following conditions are met:a. The vendor submits a special event operation request to the Development Officer at least three business days prior to the commencement of the special event or festival;b. permission from the special event or festival coordinator has been obtained and submitted to the Development Officer; and,c. the Development Officer approves the special event operation request.

8. Storage of the mobile food vendor vehicle on-street is prohibited.

9. All elements associated with the mobile food vendor vehicle and its operations shall not cause any vehicular or pedestrian obstructions or hazards.

10. Mobile food vendor operations shall not create any disturbance or nuisance, including but not limited to noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, air pollution, heat, glare, bright light, hazardous or unacceptable waste. Lights, sounds or actions which may be a distraction for motorists and/or pedestrians are not permitted.

11. Operations of the mobile food vendor vehicle shall be conducted in a manner that does not restrict or interfere with the ingress or egress of the adjacent property owner or constitute an obstruction to adequate access by fire, police or sanitation vehicles.

12. Vendors shall clean up within a 6.0 metre radius after service at a location.

13. All mobile food vendors are required to maintain a location log that tracks the time and duration of the mobile food vendor vehicle at each location. This location log shall be made available to the Development Officer upon request, and a copy of the location log must be submitted to the Development Officer annually.

In June 2014, Town of Cochrane Council approved an amendment to the Waste Management Bylaw requiring all multi-unit properties to provide on-site source-separated recycling for their residents. The intention of the amendment is to ensure that Cochrane residents living in apartment complexes, condos and unserviced townhome complexes have access to convenient recycling services just like single family homes in Cochrane.

Your FIRST WASTE & RECYCLING PLAN IS DUE ON OR BEFORE MAY 15, 2015.Ways to submit your plan:• online: use the online form on www.cochrane.ca/multi-unit • on paper: download the form from www.cochrane.ca/multi-unit and mail, fax or email (wasteandrecycling@cochrane.ca)

Town of Cochrane staff will contact you within a week of receiving your form. If you are not contacted within this timeframe, please contact the Waste & Recycling Hotline 403-851-2277 or wasteandrecycling@cochrane.ca

Yes, the program applies to smaller properties, however properties with 25 or fewer units have some additional options available to them.

8 or fewer unitsOwners or managers of multi-unit properties with eight or fewer units may apply to receive and pay for the Town’s automated waste and recycling cart service. Contact Waste & Recycling Services directly at 403-851-2277 or wasteandrecycling@cochrane.ca to determine eligibility.

25 or fewer unitsOwners or managers of multi-unit properties with 25 or fewer units may apply for exemption from hiring a private recycling collector through their Waste and Recycling Plan.If approved for exemption, you are still required to:• Set up and maintain onsite storage of all recyclables • Self-haul recycling: assign hauling of recyclable materials to yourself, an employee or volunteer to a verifiable recycling facility such as the Cochrane Eco Centre.• Inform your residents of the recycling program details in writing (by letter, brochure, poster etc.) within 30 days of move-in.

Perhaps, but not necessarily. Monitor your program to ensure you have the appropriate frequency of collection, type and number of containers. Yes, you are adding recycling collection (which is usually cheaper than waste collection), but you should be able to reduce the number containers and frequency of your waste collection which should save you money.

You may be able to replace waste containers with recycling containers, using the same total amount of space. For example, if you have two 6-yard dumpsters for waste, replace one with a 6-yard recycling dumpster.

Consider expanding your waste and recycling collection area into an unused space, like a rarely used parking spot. Your collection company and the Town of Cochrane Waste & Recycling Services can help you identify areas for recycling container placement.

There are many ways to introduce a new recycling program. Based on experience, we suggest hosting a one-time kick-off event. Here are a few examples:

Kick-off PartyA party for the property residents that combines food (for example a BBQ) and entertainment (music or games) with an introduction to the new recycling program. Activities can include demonstrations on how to set up your in-unit recycling, where and how to take recycling to the collection bins and examples of items acceptable in the program. As residents arrive they can be directed to sign in and receive their recycling brochure (and bin if you are providing them)

Pros: Suitable for all sizes of properties. Fun. Highly visible. Promotes conversations and community building. Residents will associate the new recycling program with a positive experience.Cons: Requires a suitable space. Cost for food and/or entertainment. Time consuming to plan. Need sufficient staff/volunteers.

Community Meeting/Open HouseA resident gathering in a common area, either as a stand-alone event or plan it to coincide with an already scheduled AGM or other meeting. An open house format allows residents to drop in and leave after they have asked questions and picked up brochures. Residents can be directed to sign in (allowing you to track who attended and follow up with those who couldn’t attend). Set up a demonstration showing in-unit storage options and how recycling containers need to be used (such as sorting requirements). Provide some refreshments.

Pros: Not very time consuming. Low cost. Few staff/volunteers required. Drop-in format encourages residents to pop in.Cons: Less fun than a party.

Door-to-Door OutreachOn a specific date, go door to door to distribute in-unit bins (if you are providing them) and information materials about the program. This gives you the opportunity to explain the program to each resident, including what is acceptable and where the recycling collection bins are located.Pros: Good choice for smaller properties. No extra cost. Easy to keep track of who you spoke with.Cons: Time consuming for larger properties.

However you chose to roll out your program, ensure you keep track of who attended events and who you spoke to. To reach those that were unable to attend events or were not home when you went door to door, consider leaving the brochures and program information at their door with your contact information so that they can contact you with questions. Use your newsletter or email distribution list to reinforce the messaging electronically. You could also set up a closed Facebook group for your property residents where information can be provided and residents can join in the conversation.

Most residents of multi-unit properties support recycling and welcome a program being established as long as it is convenient and easy to use. Some residents may be concerned that the recycling in their units will take up too much space. You can address this concern by explaining that with the new onsite program they don’t need to store their recycling for long periods to haul it to the Eco Centre; instead they can take it to the onsite collection bins whenever they need to. We suggest you emphasize the program’s benefits when chatting with residents: recycling is essential for environmental sustainability, it keeps the property clean and attractive, reduces the amount of waste going to landfill.

If structural alterations will be made to the property to accommodate waste and recycling containers, waste and recycling areas or waste and recycling enclosures, visit with the Town of Cochrane’s Planning and Development Services Department to learn about any permits that may be required: Town of Cochrane Planning & Engineering Services403-851-2570 or planning@cochrane.ca

The speed limit in school zones is 30 km per hour between the hours of 7 am and 9 pm on school days, in alleyways it is 20 km per hour and unless otherwise posted the speed limit in town is 50 km per hour.

Cars, trailers or any other vehicles may not be parked in town alleys or lanes. Alleys are to be utilized for loading and unloading of vehicles only. Utility, maintenance and sometimes emergency vehicles require alleys for access (Traffic Bylaw 02/2005).

Trailers can park for 72 hours, but they must be attached to the towing vehicle. After 72 hours, you must move the vehicle to an off-street location for a period of not less than 72 hours before it can be parked on the street again (Traffic Bylaw 02/2005).

No. Washing, repairing or servicing a vehicle near any highway within town in a manner that allows soap suds, mud, cement, refuse, debris, tar, oil, grease, antifreeze or other vehicle fluids to flow onto or enter upon the highway is not permitted.

After a snowfall, home and business owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the sidewalks adjacent to their property within 48 hours of the snowfall. In the interest of public safety, Community Peace Officers may require that ice be removed even sooner (Snow Removal Bylaw 01/2009).

There is no Town Bylaw currently that restricts clotheslines. However, there may be a restrictive covenant in place for your neighbourhood. If there is, it will be on your Certificate of Title. Certificates of Title can be obtained from the town office for $15 or through Alberta Registries.

My Cochrane is a great way to get all the notifications you’re interested in: emergency alerts, events, waste and recyling collection, RFP postings and more. Tap the Notify Me icon, tap the categories you'd like to sign up for, then tap beside the way you'd like to get notifications: email or text (you'll be asked to provide your email address or phone number).

Divertible organic waste, including food waste, yard waste, food soiled paper, and pet waste comprises over 65% of our waste and remains one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. The Town of Cochrane has a goal of 80% waste diversion by 2020. Removing organics from our garbage will help do that. Council approved the Zero-Waste Framework in 2012 which outlines ways to reach those goals. Find out how at cochrane.ca/ZeroWaste. The Town is required by the City of Calgary to implement organic collection in order to continue using City of Calgary landfills.

All homes that currently receive Town waste and recycling collection will also get organics collection starting in April 2017.

All the material collected in green carts is used to make compost, a valuable material for helping grow plants, enhance Town parks and help nearby family farms and other agriculture operations. It takes about one year to turn organics into compost. We’ll be able to provide some compost for your garden at home!

Cochrane's organics collection program accepts pet waste as long as it is in compostable bags. Most of the pet shops in Cochrane carry white earth rated poop bags marked "Certified ASTM D6400" but do not have the "certified compostable" logo. After checking with the Town's compost facility, they have told us these bags are approved for use at their facility. Local pet suppliers are aware that these are the only poop bags approved for Cochrane's program, in addition to other "certified compostable" (with logo) bags.

It’s easy to collect food scraps in the kitchen for your green cart — just use the kitchen catcher provided or any other reusable container like a coffee can or plastic food storage container. When it’s full, dump into your cart!

Using your kitchen catcher is easy:1. Line your kitchen catcher with paper or a compostable bag.2. Keep your kitchen catcher in a convenient location in your kitchen, such as on yourcountertop or under the sink.2. While cooking, put food scraps from your prep directly in your kitchen catcher.3. While cleaning up, scrape leftovers and food scraps directly in your kitchen catcher.4. Empty the kitchen catcher into your green cart before you set out your cart for collection.

Yes, you can use a bag in your kitchen catcher — it makes it easier to move your organics to your green cart and can help keep your kitchen catcher clean. Make sure you use the right kind of bag: paper or certified compostable ONLY. Do not use plastic or so-called biodegradable bags. Look for logos that indicate “certified compostable.”

There are a few ways you can prevent smells:• Sprinkle in some baking soda • Rinse it out with vinegar • Wash it in your dishwasher• Line with a single piece of newspaper/cardboard• Wrap food scraps in a paper towel, newspaper, paper bag or box. In summer, you can also keep material frozen until organics collection day

• Line the bottom and sides of your organics cart with cardboard or newspaper. After 30 cm (12”) of wet organics (food waste, leaves), add some dry organics (crumpled newspaper, pizza boxes) then alternate layers between wet waste and dry waste. This prevents odour and reduces the possibility of organics freezing to the cart when the temperature drops. • Avoid packing contents of the cart down. Organic materials may become stuck in the cart and the truck may not be able to fully empty it.• Wrap wet or smelly organics in boxes from cereal or crackers, paper bags or newspaper to help prevent them from freezing to the cart.

There are a few ways you can prevent smells:• Sprinkle in some baking soda or powdered detergent (without bleach)• Swish some vinegar in the bottom• Line with a single piece of newspaper/cardboard• Rinse the cart regularly during summer months with a water/vinegar mix • Store in a cool place out of the sun• Wrap food scraps in a paper towel, newspaper, paper bag or box. In summer, you can also keep material frozen until organics collection day• Grass: leave it on the lawn or cut it just a day or two before organics collection day• Put your green cart out on its proper collection day even if you only have a small amount

Yes, you can! Backyard composting is a great way to reduce waste. We encourage you to continue, however, it is important to know that your green cart takes many materials that cannot be handled by the typical backyard composter: cheese and dairy products; fish; grease; meat products and bones; oily, fatty foods; pet waste; sauces and spreads; soiled paper; paper napkins, plates and cups; soiled pizza boxes. These materials will not compost properly in a backyard pile and may even attract unwanted pests.

Using an in-sink garbage disposal unit puts more solids into the sanitary pipes, which leads to increased clogs and blockages. This means more service calls and added costs for the Town and homeowners. Using your organics cart ensures the material is used to make compost.

Visitor Information Center, downtown at 521 First St W (just east of Fifth), open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday, Sunday, holidays 10am-8pm. The Rockyview Hotel also allows the public to use their washrooms: 304 First St E (corner of Second Ave W).

There are also washrooms open daily May to September, weather permitting, at the Cochrane Ranche Historic Site (Hwy 1A east of Hwy 22) and Mitford Pond Park (west end of West Rock Road off of Hwy 22).

If you would like to honour a loved one, family or group with a bench or picnic table in a Town park, you can purchase a piece of park furniture and have it installed by Town Parks staff, complete with bronze plaque. Find out more or apply.

No gardening or other encroachment is allowed on Town land unless authorized. This helps Town staff preserve the natural beauty, native elements and overall integrity of these areas. Property owners who appear to be gardening or otherwise encroaching on a Town park, pathway or open space will be required to remedy the situation at their own expense. Not sure if you’re encroaching? If it’s outside your fence, it’s Town land.

A permit is required to access your property through a Town park or pathway. Contact us at least 72 hours before you need access.

Please be prepared with information such as the type, size and weight of vehicle being used, materials to be transported, and the length of time required to complete the work. All permits are weather dependent. There is no charge for the permit. Permits are assessed on an individual need basis.

Fishing is permitted at Mitford Pond. Mitford Pond is stocked annually with trout. Anglers 13 years old and younger are allowed to keep one trout. For anglers over 13, only catch and release is allowed (with barbless hooks and no bait). A license is not required. Ice fishing is not permitted.

A variety of local bylaws and provincial regulations govern when you need a permit. This may also vary with the specific circumstances surrounding your project. It is always best to contact Permits and Inspections at 403-851-2572 to discuss the specifics before starting any new work.

If you have a permit you can feel secure knowing that the installation will conform to construction and safety standards that have been accepted under the Safety Codes Act. The cost of the permit also includes inspection(s) by certified Safety Codes Officers.

The Safety Codes Act requires that all contractors and homeowners in Alberta obtain permits prior to commencing work on buildings covered by the Alberta Building and Fire Codes, the Canadian Electrical Code, the Gas Codes or the National Plumbing Code.

We recruit vendors for food sales at Town sponsored events every spring; successful vendors must meet health regulations. Contact us at 403-851-2534 for more information. We do not currently allow for-profit sales of any goods at Town events; however, the Cochrane Farmers' Market takes applications for vendors.

Nearly 200 local artists worked for three months to produce the Trust Cochrane Mural Mosaic. Find out more about the the concept, process and the final mural by visiting the Mural Mosaic website. Details about the Canada 150 Mosaic project can be found at Canada150Mosaic website.

The official unveiling of Cochrane's own Canada 150 Mosaic will be on Canada Day 2017. Cochrane is proud to be a part of the largest mural in this national project, spanning 40 feet long by 8 feet high!

The Town of Cochrane must comply with Alberta’s Municipal Government Act (MGA) and federal regulatory and business requirements, as well as our own Purchasing Policy in order to enter into any contract for goods or services. Departments that purchase good or services from outside providers manage their own procurement process, with the support of others in the Town.

The framework for procurement and contracts is directly related to Cochrane’s commitment to manage Town finances and resources responsibly and report on them to the community.

As a public entity entrusted with public funds, policies and other regulations are in place to ensure that: • There is fair opportunity to bid on a Town of Cochrane project.• Procurement and project agreements are handled as efficiently as possible.• We hire and acquire services and goods in an open and transparent manner.• All vendors from anywhere in the Town, region, province or country, when selected, receive access to information on procurement opportunities, processes and results.• The risks associated with procurement practices and decisions are managed through appropriate controls and monitoring.

We treat all bidders and vendors fairly and openly. We do so by following these guidelines: • We provide a single source of contact for each bid to provide direct answers for each inquiry and to keep communication simple and consistent. In some cases, we post all questions and answers so that all interested parties have the same information. • We only accept questions in writing and reply in writing (usually email) to maintain an accurate, chronological and e-discoverable record. If a bidder asks a verbal question, they are directed to send the inquiry via email. Text messages are not considered.• If one vendor has done any previous work for the Town of Cochrane, the Town will disclose that an incumbent contractor exists and may bid. This is sometimes the case in the process of a vendor review, which will allow an incumbent to compete for a renewed contract with new bidders. This inclusion will never guarantee that an incumbent will receive the contract again, so participation by new bidders is always welcome.• We ensure that all our RFP documentation is drafted in general terms, enough to satisfy the project specifications and Scope of Work (SOW), but not to the point of only appealing to the capabilities and resources of one particular bidder/vendor.

Vendors who feel they have not been treated fairly must communicate their concerns in writing to the contact person for the bid. The correspondence must include:• specifics of their complaint or concern • section of the RFP document it pertains to• rationale/evidence to support their complaint or concern.

Complaints/concerns and physical copies of the supporting documentation must be submitted to the contact person for the bid. If the concern cannot be resolved at the department level, the complaint may be referred to our legal and/or process department for review. If a meeting is required, or if litigation follows, the process will follow its due course.

Most bids meet the requirements of an RPF, but some lack certain components or information, which may lead to rejection. It is important to follow every step and include every specific item in the requirements.

Common reasons an RFP bid is rejected:1. Lack of evidence of your experience relating to the project. 2. Too verbose (unnecessary padding) of the document. 3. Lack of required documentation.4. Financial errors in budget/financial documents.5. Lack of appropriate project planning in the estimated time/cost. 6. Proofreading/spelling mistakes. 7. Late submission. 8. Lack of signature approving that the bid comes from your office.

Common reasons a bid is accepted: 1. Full evidence of experience, capabilities and resources. 2. Price (competitive, fair and market-base )3. Appropriate project planning in the estimated time/cost.4. All required documentation provided.

The scope and detail included in a Town of Cochrane RFP reflects the risk, complexity and significance of the project or service/goods. It describes the project, specific requirements, and the criteria that will be used to evaluate submissions.

The RFP includes detailed information, including but not limited to: • Department managing the project• Location of the project/service/goods required• Restrictions, constraints on the SOW• Required deliverables, standards and outcomes• Risk management details and success factors• Performance and evaluation standards/criteria• Applicable municipal, provincial, federal legislation or guidelines• Terms and conditions of the bidding process• Public reporting (post-award) and filing requirements

Bids usually go through two evaluation steps:1. Checklist of required inclusions requested in RFP.2. Evaluation against weighted criteria.

Weighted criteria can usually be broken down into key areas: planning/execution approach, capabilities/experience and price; the RFP usually lists the weighted criteria, including relative weightings. The evaluation criteria will be different for each project, so do not rely on past RFPs to determine your potential for success.

Final award is determined on final scores in both steps of the evaluation process.

The Town of Cochrane treats all proponents fairly. We review submissions in accordance with criteria established in the RFP document. We do not consider or discuss additional information about the vendors that is not in the submissions.

Our evaluation takes into account your company’s best project approach, capabilities and resources, pricing, scheduling, and supplemental documentation. The winner who receives the contract will have met the right balance of all these aspects, measured against the weight of each part of the RFP requirements and the evaluation criteria.

Roads Division's primary goal during any snowstorm is to keep primary and collector streets open and safe for the motoring public. Priority is given to emergency routes. Due to operational costs, we only plow and sand the designated priorities on a regular basis, unless roadways are rendered impassable to the motoring public and emergency vehicles.

The Town's primary duty is to open and maintain the main roadway system, these ridges are called windrows, our crews try to keep blocked driveways to a minimum. We are unable to clear windrows due to limited resources. .

Plows need to go a minimum speed in order to throw the snow off to the side, and we try not to throw the snow any further than necessary. In some cases, however, the sidewalks are too close to the curb to avoid getting snow on them.

If you park on a major arterial thoroughfare (for example, Quigley Drive or a residential collector route) during a snow event, there is chance that a snowplow could pass and push snow around your car. Please use off-street parking during snow storm cleanup instead.

During initial cleanup stage the primary objective is to ensure all designated priorities are plowed and sanded. In order for the crews to plow all the snow from one side of the street to the other where applicable (for example, parks and open boulevards), they require additional traffic control to ensure the safety of themselves and the motoring public. This procedure will only be initiated when road conditions are stabilized and staffing becomes available.

Yes. Whenever snow or ice is deposited on the sidewalk(s), fronting or abutting occupied premises, the occupier of the premises shall remove the snow or ice from such portion of the sidewalk(s) within 48 hours after the snow or ice was deposited in accordance with Town of Cochrane Snow Removal Bylaw 01/2009.

When the weather permits, the Roads Division cleans paved streets and Town-owned parking lots taking all practical measures to ensure the protection of the environment by reducing storm water pollutants from entering our local water courses through the storm sewer system.

Some additional reasons for winter sweeping include: cleanliness, dust control, accident prevention (because of hazards caused by loose gravel) and because material cleaned off the roadways in winter means faster cleanup in springtime.

As per the current Snow Removal Bylaw, a person who removes snow or ice from public or private sidewalks and/or public or private driveways shall not deposit snow or ice upon any street, highway or boulevard and shall not impede storm sewer run off or block access to any storm sewer grate or fire hydrant. When possible, shovel snow and ice onto your property.

During a snowstorm, avoid parking along emergency routes, arterial thoroughfares and collectors.

Exercise extreme care when driving in inclement weather. Driving on snow packed and icy roads requires your full attention. Allow extra room between you and the vehicle ahead of you.

Remember to brake slowly.

Keep your windshield clean at all times.

During times of reduced visibility, watch for bicycles, disabled individuals and pedestrians, especially around schools. If at all possible, do not drive during a storm: it is much safer to stay at home and wait until conditions improve.

Never assume that because the temperature is above zero the roads are safe. Road salt does not work miracles and is not effective below -10 degrees Celsius.

If water has accumulated on the road near your house, on your driveway or front lawn, you may be located near a trap low. A trap low is a device that slows the flow of water into stormwater ponds; it is designed to hold the water on the street (properties on streets with trap lows are graded to keep the water away from foundations). If rainwater accumulation has not drained 24 hours after the rain stops, please contact Town of Cochrane Operations at 403-851-2590. More info on trap lows.

Municipalities levy taxes to help pay for services such as police, fire protection, parks, recreation, and public works. Each year, Town Council reviews and approves the amount required to fund and support these services. From this amount, sources of revenue other than property taxes, such as provincial grants, license fees and user fees, are subtracted. The balance is the amount to be collected through property taxes.

The Town recognizes that surpluses are not continuous sources of funding. If the Town depends on a one-time surplus to pay for annual operating costs, it puts off any increased operating costs into the next fiscal year, where a tax increase would likely be required. In recognition of this, and to plan responsibly for the future, Council approved Operating Reserves Policy 1705-01, which requires any surplus to be placed in facilities lifecycling capital reserves. This reserve fund is used to prepare for new facilities included in the 10-year financial strategy.

There are a number of factors that can have an impact on tax bills:• Any change in your property's annual market value assessment • Council's decision to raise, lower, or maintain the amount of tax revenue needed to balance the Town's annual budget• The amount of revenue required by the provincial government for education purposes may also affect your tax bill. (Find out more about the education portion.)

Provincial legislation specifies that the funds for schools are to be collected by municipalities. The province and separate school boards requisition revenue they require from the Town and the total levy is distributed among taxpayers through their property tax bills. People who do not own property contribute indirectly through their rental or lease payments. If you have any questions regarding school taxes, please contact Alberta Education directly at 1-780-422-7125 or toll free by dialing 403-310-0000, then enter 780-422-7125.

Your annual taxes, outlined in your June tax bill are due June 30 of each year. The taxes paid on June 30 cover the period January 1 to December 31 of that year. Supplementary taxes (November tax bill) are due December 31.

You can pay your property tax bill at the Town office located at 101 RancheHouse Road, with cash, money order, personal cheque, bank draft or debit card (include the remittance portion of the notice), or through your bank’s telephone or internet banking. Credit cards are not accepted.

In person during office hours (Mon - Fri, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm)

Cochrane RancheHouse 101 RancheHouse Road

In person after office hours

Drop your money order, cheque, bank draft in the drop box at Town office or FCSS; remember to include the remittance portion of your notice. Do not drop off cash.

Cochrane RancheHouse

101 RancheHouse Rd

FCSS

209 Second Ave W

Mail (include your payment and the remittance portion of your notice)

Town of Cochrane 101 RancheHouse Road Cochrane AB T4C 2K8

At your bank or credit union

Set up the Town as a bill payee through your regular bill payment system; your roll number is your account number. Allow three business days before the penalty date to ensure payments are processed on time. Please retain all documentation.

TIPP

Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) allows you to pay your property taxes in equal monthly installments instead of a single annual payment. Call 403-851-2288 or 403-851-2522 before June 15 to register to avoid a 7% penalty on July 1.

Town administration is scheduled to take the Telecommunication Antenna Structure Siting Protocols to Council on March 29, 2016. The Protocols establish standards that allow the Town of Cochrane to influence the placement of telecommunication antenna structures proposed within Town limits.

Yes, there are three different types and sizes of structures:Type A• Any height or a structure that increases height of existing tower by 25% or more• Within 100m of residential development• Other details: in areas of environmental, historic, strategic or operational importance or sensitivity (at the discretion of Town Administration)• Any other structure not identified

Type B• On roofs of highrise buildings• On street light poles• On parking lot light poles• On existing utility towers and similar structures• On towers less than 15m that are not Type A

The Protocols outline a public consultation process that proponents must follow. The level of public consultation is determined by the type and size of structure proposed.

Type A submissions:Proponents are required to host a public consultation meeting. Town residents will be notified of the public consultation meeting via a public notice posted in the Cochrane Times and the Cochrane Eagle for two consecutive weeks. Additionally, residents within 300 m of the proposed Type A structure will receive written notification of the public consultation meeting.

Affected residents are encouraged to attend public consultation meetings for submissions in their neighbourhood in order to have a say in the process.

Type B submissions:Public consultation is not required; a notice is published as information.

The Town of Cochrane reviews and evaluates each submission it receives for a telecommunication antenna structure and will work with proponents to identify and mitigate any issues of concern.

Town Administration will attend all public consultation meetings to observe the information provided to the public, ensure that the Protocols are followed, and to clarify the Protocols and the Town’s role in the process as necessary.

After reviewing submissions, letters of concurrence or non-concurrence will be issued by Council for Type A submissions. Letters of concurrence or non-concurrence will be issued by Administration for Type B and C submissions.

A letter of concurrence or non-concurrence is a document sent to Industry Canada from the Town of Cochrane either supporting (concurrence) or not supporting (non-concurrence) a proponent’s proposal for the installation of a telecommunication antenna structure within the Town, based on if the Proponent met the requirements in the Protocol and the Town's technical requirements.

The Protocols lists a number of preferred locations for telecommunication antenna structures in the Town of Cochrane, including on municipal land. The Town will work with the proponent to ensure that antenna structures are proposed at preferred locations in Town.

The issuance of a letter of concurrence or non-concurrence will be based on criteria including location of the proposed telecommunication structure.

Although the Town is not the approving authority for telecommunication structure siting, the Protocols establish a procedure allowing the Town to influence the placement of telecommunication structures.

The Town will engage in pre-submission consultation meetings with the proponent to discuss the location of the proposed telecommunication structure, among other criteria. The Town will oversee the submission process and will provide input regarding preferred locations. Ultimately, the proposed location of a telecommunication structure will influence the issuance of a letter of concurrence or non-concurrence.

The Town of Cochrane is not the approval authority for telecommunication antenna structures. The Federal Minister of Industry is the approving authority for the development and operation of radio communication in Canada, including telecommunication antenna structures. Therefore, the Town of Cochrane cannot prevent a proponent from gaining permission from Industry Canada to install a telecommunication antenna structure even if it contravenes the Town’s Telecommunication Antenna Structure Protocols.

The Town of Cochrane does not assess submissions for a telecommunication antenna structure with respect to health.

Regarding health and radiofrequency (RF) exposure issues and limits for telecommunication antenna systems, these elements are regulated by Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 guidelines. Health Canada’s position is that there are no human health effects as long as the guidelines are followed.

Any questions or comments the public may wish to make regarding health issues related to cell phones, cell towers and radiofrequency exposure guidelines (Safety Code 6) should be directed to Health Canada (healthcanada.gc.ca) and to the proponent. Industry Canada, Spectrum Management Operations Branch may also be contacted for information: 403-292-4575 or spectrum.calgary@ic.gc.ca

There is currently no information on cell tower impact on the environment. Radio frequency (RF) exposure issues and limits for telecommunication antenna systems are regulated by Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 guidelines.

Anyone can attend Council meetings. Regular Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month, except July, August and December when meetings are held only on the second Monday of the month.

Check for agendas for upcoming meetings (posted by 3 pm on the Friday before the meeting). Meetings begin at 6 pm and are held in Council Chambers at the Cochrane RancheHouse: 101 RancheHouse Road.

Highways 1A and 22 are the jurisdiction of Alberta Transportation. The Town has made many formal and informal requests to the province for attention to the highways, and a number of interim measures have been made, including a change to the signals, the addition of a southbound lane and wider, longer turning lanes. The design for the next level of improvements has been done, but the province has not included any additional work in our area in their current three-year plan due to costs (estimated at more than $35 million), as well as other provincial priorities. Town officials continue to meet with provincial officials to work together on solutions for a variety of areas of local concern.

The Town always considers roundabouts first for any intersection improvement or construction project, before signals or other control mechanisms are considered. Roundabouts require a larger footprint (more land) than a signalized intersection. Grade and sightlines are also factors in the decisions; local topography has a big impact on the kinds of intersections that can safely be built.

In most cases, the road system in Cochrane is functioning within the prescribed engineering capacity. There is a plan to build a new bridge across the Bow River and arterial road connections by 2018 which will help move traffic more efficiently across the river. In addition, the Town regularly gathers and analyses data such as traffic counts and determines highest priority upgrades. One example is the continuing work with CP Rail to improve signal timing at Centre Avenue for better traffic flow.

Traffic lights in Town are programmed for optimum traffic flow on main arteries. The lights also have detection zones that trigger light changes when vehicles approach. For instance, the traffic lights on Centre Avenue will stay green when no vehicles approach from the east or west. When a vehicle enters the detection zone, the lights on Centre will turn red so east/west traffic can proceed.

If traffic lights on a Town roads seems to be staying red or green for an inappropriate length of time, please let us know so we can investigate: Email or call 403-851-2590.

Traffic lights on Highways 1A and 22 are the jurisdiction of Alberta Transportation and are maintained by Volker Stevin on their behalf. If you see problems on the highways, you can contact them online or at 1-888-VS-ROADS.

The Connecting Cochrane Plan is assessing and planning for multi-modal transportation and considers alternatives to driving on roadways including pedestrian access, bike lanes and public transportation as options.

Once people get used to using Centre Avenue for north-south movement, some of the load on Fifth Avenue should be reduced. There will be more options in the commercial district once Grande Blvd to Railway is fully operational, and the road by the Movie House is open.

Some of the solutions to the Town’s road network depend on the provincial budget; the Town is keeping up the pressure on provincial officials to see our projects reinstated in the three-year capital plan. In the meantime, the Town makes every attempt to implement short-term solutions to alleviate some of the pressure, where applicable.

The Town reviews intersections on an annual basis and continues to monitor concerns expressed by residents and others. As part of the Connecting Cochrane plan, the Town is refining various options and a long-term strategy, including local roads where capacity issues are shown. The long-term strategy for Fifth Avenue and the downtown area is to promote a variety of mobility options for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

The long-term plan for Fifth Avenue includes a realignment with Fourth Avenue across Highway 1A. This will allow for better traffic flow and reduce the number of intersections on Highway 1A. The realignment is not expected to add traffic to Fifth Avenue from Cochrane Heights: a portion of traffic to/from Cochrane Heights is already travelling on Fifth Avenue before turning onto Highway 1A.

The long-term planning process also uses models to assess the long-term impacts of additional growth. The area along Fifth Avenue is currently largely developed; as growth occurs, future traffic patterns and flow will shift throughout the downtown core as Grande Blvd is connected through to Railway Street, and Centre Avenue is widened north of the railway tracks. With recent development along Centre Avenue and the construction of the new railway crossing, traffic patterns have already begun to shift from Fifth Avenue to this new corridor. Ultimately, there will be a grade-separated crossing of the railway at Centre Avenue.

• The Town of Cochrane has long-term plans to address infrastructure concerns including roads and bridges and related connectivity challenges.• The Province of Alberta (Alberta Transportation) plans and implements highway upgrades.• Developers work with the Town to follow formulas, standards and guidelines for roads and other infrastructure planning .

The Growth Management Strategy accepted by Council in 2013 identifies infrastructure requirements to accommodate the Town’s projected growth, and identifies the needs for:• a significant arterial roadway as an alternative to provincial highways• a transportation network that better accommodates other modes of transportation to help reduce the reliance on vehicles over time

Council’s strategic priorities for 2015-2018 include focusing attention on roads and pathways. Specifically:• Complete the Transportation Master Plan• Prioritize projects within the Transportation Master Plan for implementation• Champion improvements to Hwy 1A/22 intersection• New Bow River bridge crossing targeted for completion in 2018

The Town allocates over $1.5 million each year on improving existing road network, such as in the East End.The Town spent over $11 million on the construction of Centre Avenue.New lights at Highway 1A and Centre Avenue have improved safety of the intersection; the work was done in partnership with Alberta Transportation.Left turn lights at Highways 1A and 22 were result of extensive efforts from Council and the community.

• Ongoing: existing road network improvements• Ongoing: Town officials continue to meet with provincial officials to work together on solutions for a variety of areas of local concern.• 2014-2015: roadwork on Railway Ave• By 2018: targeted completion date for new bridge across the Bow River and arterial connections to tie Griffin Road to the south side of the river• 2020: Railway pedestrian crossing to join Historic Downtown and The Quarry• 2020-2023: Centre Ave grade-separated crossing

The Town is currently developing a Transportation Master Plan based on research results and public input. The plan will guide the development of the transportation system in a way that reflects the community vision and goals, and more importantly, is integrated with the Town’s existing overarching policy and planning documents. Find out more, including presentation materials from the June and October 2014 workshop sessions:www.cochrane.ca/transportation

Your sewer bill is based on your water consumption. New properties that do not have a history of water consumption will be charged 80% of water used between April - September, and 100% of the water used between October - March. Water is based on consumption using a three-tier system.

If your collection day falls on Christmas Day and/or New Year's Day, your waste and recycling will be picked up the following week day. If your collection day falls on any other statutory holiday, your waste and recycling will be picked up as scheduled.

The limit on curbside residential waste collection in Cochrane promotes waste reduction and recycling, and gives the Town of Cochrane the ability to control waste disposal costs. The limit on curbside residential waste collection is one 120 litre waste cart per household per week.

If you have excess waste you have 3 options:1. Purchase "Town of Cochrane - Excess waste bags" put your waste in the bags and place it beside your waste cart on your collection day. Bags can be purchased at the Cochrane RancheHouse, FCSS, Operational Facilities, or at the Cochrane Eco Centre during regular operational hours for $3 each. 2. The Cochrane Eco Centre (50 Griffin Industrial Point) accepts clear bagged household waste for $2/bag. All recycling must be removed prior to disposal.3. Alternatively, if you have excess waste on a regular basis you can make arrangements for an additional waste cart; additional charges will apply. Please call the Waste and Recycling Hotline at 403-851-2277 for details.

If your waste or recycling was not picked up and you put your carts out for collection before 7 am on your collection day and followed all of the other pertinent guidelines, please call the Waste & Recycling Hotline at 403-851-2277.

It is the responsibility of the resident to ensure waste put out for collection is contained so that it is impervious to weather, animals and birds. By properly utilizing the waste collection cart and ensuring that the lid is closed completely, residents should not have any issues with weather, animals or birds.One of the main reasons why the Town of Cochrane chose to implement the automated waste and recycling program is because of the design of the automated carts. The carts are designed in a way to prevent negative wildlife interactions with waste. As long as the cart lids are kept closed birds, dogs, coyotes and other wildlife will not have the same access to the garbage as they do with garbage bags placed out for collection. Gone are the days of having ravens and magpies tear open your bags and spread garbage all over your lawn!

No. All waste set out for collection should be contained in plastic bags which are properly tied before being put in waste containers. Residents are welcome to use kitchen catchers or reuse old grocery bags to contain their waste within the cart; you are not limited to using standard black garbage bags.

Excess recycling can be delivered directly to the Eco Centre or included in your recycling cart on your next collection day. Alternatively, if you have excess recycling on a regular basis you can make arrangements for an additional recycling cart; additional charges will apply. Please call the Waste and Recycling Hotline at 403-851-2277 for details.

No, your cardboard coffee cups are made of mixed materials i.e. cardboard layers with plastic in between, waxed cardboard or coated in foam, the cup cannot be recycled and should be included in your garbage. We highly recommend you get our hands on a good To Go Cup, many local coffee shops provide discounts when you bring your own cup.

The Cochrane Eco Centre now accepts clean “Styrofoam”/foam meat trays, egg cartons and foam take-out containers for recycling – look for the “Foam” recycling window along the backside of the Eco Centre building. Please ensure that the trays and containers have been washed and all labels, tape and wrap are removed. Do not put any type of “Styrofoam”/foam in your Roll With It Cochrane Recycling Cart as those materials are hauled to a facility that cannot process these products.

Where you store your cart is up to you as long as you don’t leave it on the street. Residents with front street collection will find it easy to store the carts in their garage, on their front deck, or along the side of their house. Residents with alley collection can store their carts in their garage or against their back fence. Choose the storage location that works best for you. Please just ensure that your carts do not impede traffic and are not stored in a way that may be obtrusive to your neighbours.

Carts are the property of the Town of Cochrane and are assigned to residences rather than people. Please do not take your cart with you when you move. If you need carts at your new residence, call the Waste and Recycling Hotline at 403-851-2277.

The Town of Cochrane launched a curbside automated recycling collection program in the fall of 2011. All Cochrane households that currently participate in the Town's waste collection program receive curbside recycling collection.

If you live in a condo or have a business that is not included in the Town of Cochrane's Automated Waste & Recycling Collection program but you still want recycling collection, please contact Green King Rural, Residential and Commercial Recycling Collection at 587-999-4006.

Like most municipalities, the Town of Cochrane collects fees from residents and businesses in order to finance waste and recycling services. These rates are adjusted as required to reflect the costs associated with offering waste and recycling services.

Currently, all households receiving curbside waste and recycling collection pay $20.55 /month. All households and businesses in Cochrane also pay an Eco Centre fee of $5.00 /month for the operation of the Town of Cochrane Eco Centre and Special Waste Programming.

Our water comes from the Bow River. We pump the water from an intake dug into the riverbed to the town’s water treatment plant. The treatment plant includes processes that clarify and micro-filter dirt along with harmful and undesirable substances from the water. After that, a multi-barrier disinfection process using ultraviolet light and chlorine ensures that the water remains safe for drinking. The treatment plant meets and exceeds the current requirements of Alberta Environment in the delivery of excellent quality water.

With the completion of the recent upgrade, Cochrane's plant has one of the strictest approvals in Alberta, and it is one of only a few that combines three state-of-the-art processes under one roof, along with a control system that rivals any modern manufacturing plant in operation.

Cochrane's water is considered hard because of the amount of calcium in it; the calcium occurs naturally at the mountain source. It typically measures as 180 mg/L or 10 to 11 grains per gallon hardness.

The water pressure in our system is usually constant, but in periods of high water use, slight pressure variations can occur. As well, each home has a pressure-reducing valve that may go out of adjustment and require setting (the valve is part of your home plumbing system and is private). Call a plumber if you suspect a problem with the valve in your home.

Our highest demand day came in 2016 when we used a total of 13.9 million litres of water. Our population was 25,122 at the time, which means on that day we used an average of 552 litres of water per person. In 2017, we averaged 238 litres per person per day in the winter, and 354 litres per person per day in the summer. In 2008, Town Council decided that expanding our current water treatment plant will enable us to use the remaining capacity of our existing license. This option is the most cost effective and involves the least risk.

We have numerous conservation initiatives that have been successful such as the three-tier water rate, the water conservation rebate program and a low-flow fixture requirement. The Water Utility bylaw limits the time of day you can water outside year round. Since the bylaw was originally approved in 2008, Cochranites have reduced their average water consumption approximately 15%.

The Town has also partnered with ExactET on a local weather station that can send information to irrigation systems so that they only use the water your soil really needs. We are also working with Parks to pilot irrigation systems controlled by this weather station.

As an organization, the Town has a policy in place to look for ways to reduce water consumption in the Town operations as well as in the community. We continually research new initiatives to consider for water conservation.